How severe does rhinitis need to be before surgery is considered?

Nasal surgery is generally considered only when rhinitis becomes so severe that medications or other treatments are ineffective.

Rhinitis is usually caused by inflammatory reactions of the nasal mucosa triggered by factors such as bacteria, viruses, or allergens. Mild symptoms can typically be improved with conservative treatment. However, if symptoms become severe—leading to nasal polyps, structural abnormalities in the nasal cavity, impaired nasal airflow—and drug therapy or other treatments fail, surgical intervention may be an option. Procedures such as low-temperature plasma radiofrequency ablation of the inferior turbinate or endoscopic sinus surgery can be performed to remove polyps, eliminate lesions, and improve nasal ventilation.

After onset of rhinitis, active treatment is recommended to help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.